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Casterton College Rutland to work with Oxford University science team to trial rapid Covid-19 tests




A school is set to help trial new rapid Covid-19 tests that could be a major asset in the global fight against the virus.

Carl Smith, principal of Casterton College in Rutland, says participation in the University of Oxford project will help protect his students and staff, as well as the wider community.

He approached the scientific experts through a parent at the school who works in the field, and his offer was swiftly accepted.

Carl Smith, the principal at Casterton College Rutland
Carl Smith, the principal at Casterton College Rutland

Mr Smith said: “Although the details are yet to be finalised, we are delighted to be one of the only schools in the UK working with the world’s leading scientists on this project and to be at the forefront of the fight against the virus.

“Our commitment to protect our staff, students, parents and their families is our first and main priority at all times.”

The new ‘rapid diagnosis technology’ is reportedly very fast - providing results in just half an hour - and does not require complicated instruments.

It is also said to be extremely sensitive meaning asymptomatic patients in the early stages of infection may be identified sooner, potentially helping to reduce the spread of the virus.

Asked about the benefits of involvement to his school, Mr Smith said: “The advantage to us is that our staff and students would be safer for having a batch system of rapid testing on site.

Casterton College Rutland. Photo: Google
Casterton College Rutland. Photo: Google

“If for example, 10 per cent every day were randomly tested we are more likely to capture the 40 per cent or so who scientists think may be asymptomatic but still spread the virus.

“Teenagers are particularly likely to be asymptomatic and mix in the general community with their friends so this kind of testing would make a huge difference, both to them, staff, their families and the wider community.

“The fewer asymptomatic people with the virus wandering freely the better for all of us.”

Prof Wei Huang, who has been corresponding with Mr Smith, said in an email that he hopes the school will receive their test kits before the end of this month.

Casterton College, on Ryhall Road, Great Casterton, has around 700 students on its roll, aged from 11 to 16.

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